United States travel guide
United States Tourism | United States Guide
You're Going to Love United States
A trip to the United States will take you on a rollercoaster ride filled with bright city lights, national parks, and canyons that you won't find anywhere else in the world. So buckle up and prepare to be dazzled.
What to do in the United States
1. Don't miss New York
One of the most popular destinations in the United States is without a doubt New York City, where you can watch Broadway shows, walk around Central Park, or feel the buzz around Times Square.
2. Visit the Grand Canyon
No American trip is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. Make sure you schedule a hike to the bottom to get a feel for how grandiose this place really is.
3. Have fun in Orlando
The kids will love a trip to Orlando, which is famous for its theme parks, including Disneyland and Universal, providing fun for visitors of all ages.
4. Let's not forget Las Vegas
This is a destination popular among those looking for a party. Vegas offers a wide selection of entertainment, from casinos to live shows, fine dining, and shopping.
5. San Francisco has many attractions to offer
Rounding up our top five is San Francisco, home to the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz prison, which can be visited by boat. While in the Bay Area, make sure you take a day trip to Napa Valley to visit some of the local wineries.
When to visit the United States
The United States is a large country, and the weather varies greatly depending on where you're going. If you're heading to the North of the country, the best time to visit is during the summer; however, the South gets very hot and humid in the summer and is more enjoyable in spring or autumn.
How to Get to the United States
Entry Requirements
Prior to entering the United States, all visitors need to apply for a Visa Waiver or a visitor's visa, depending on their country of origin. Either option allows travelers to stay in the country for a maximum of 90 days.
Plane
The most common mode of transport into the United States is by plane, and you will commonly find flights with British Airways, Air Canada, Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, and American Airlines.
Train
The only country that is connected to the United States by train is Canada. Amtrak trains are available from Vancouver to Seattle, which takes about 4h 30m, and Montreal to New York, which takes about 10h 30m.
Car
You can get to the United States by car if you're driving from Canada or from Mexico. From Canada, for example, you can cross the border in Buffalo (Pace Bridge) or Niagara (Rainbow Bridge).
Bus
Buses are available from Canada and Mexico, Greyhound being the major company providing travel from both countries. Prices start at around $10 for every 62 mi.
Popular airports in the United States
Popular airlines serving the United States
Where to stay in the United States
If you are looking for accommodations while on your trip, you will find hotels as well as bed-and-breakfasts located throughout the country. Motels are available for budget stays, and if you happen to be traveling during the warmer months, you can also opt for a campground.
Where to stay in popular areas of the United States
Most booked hotels in the United States
How to Get Around the United States
Public Transportation
Larger cities are well serviced when it comes to public transportation, including metro systems, bus systems, and even trams. The cost of a single ride will vary depending on the city. You can expect to pay $1.75 in Los Angeles, $3 in San Francisco, and $2.50 in New York City.
Trains
Trains are a great way to get around and are convenient for travel between cities. Amtrak is the main US train system and provides both short- and long-distance lines throughout the country.
Bus
Buses are slower than trains; however, they are cheaper and can reach more areas. Greyhound is the main bus travel provider throughout the country.
Car
If you are planning to rent a car and drive during your stay, you will need to budget for a minimum of $50 per day. Consider taking the famous Route 66, which goes all the way from Chicago to Santa Monica, Ca.
Plane
The major airlines are American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Virgin America, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways are also great options for budget travel. A flight from the East Coast to the West Coast, for example, will take around 6h.
Best car hire deals in the United States
Intermediate SUV
5 adults, 3 Bags
£23/day
People carrier
5 adults, 5 Bags
£36/day
The Cost of Living in the United States
You can expect to pay around $70 a week for groceries, and $70 a month for a public transport monthly pass. If you are planning to eat out, you can find many cheap meals and street food for less than $15 per person, while a fancier meal can cost as much as $50 per person. When it comes to payment, credit and debit cards are very commonly used throughout the country, so you don't need to worry about carrying cash everywhere.